THE TPO BAN EXPLAINED
THE TPO BAN EXPLAINED
A COMPLETE GUIDE
TPO Is Being Banned, Here’s What It Actually Means
At The Edge, we are committed to keeping our professional community informed, supported, and up to date with evolving industry regulations. As legislation around cosmetic ingredients continues to develop, we understand the importance of providing clear and transparent information about what these changes mean for you, your products, and your business.
As part of this commitment, we continue to monitor guidance from industry bodies including the CTPA (Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association), alongside updates from regulators and manufacturers across the professional nail industry.
Our priority is to ensure nail professionals feel confident navigating upcoming changes while continuing to use products safely and correctly.
The Regulatory Timeline: TPO Deadlines
What Does This Mean for Nail Professionals?
With formula transitions beginning across the industry, it’s important to stay informed about the products you are purchasing and using within your salon or professional setup.
We recommend:
#1
Checking product labels
Ingredients will always be listed on product packaging or bottles, allowing you to familiarise yourself with the formulas you are using.
#2
Looking out for updated formulas
You may begin to see product descriptions, packaging, or signage highlighting “TPO-Free” formulas as brands transition.
#3
Following recommended cure times
Different formulas may cure differently depending on ingredient composition.
At The Edge, we recommend curing for 60 seconds for best results.
#4
Reviewing your insurance policy
While current guidance confirms continued use of existing TPO products after February 2027 is permitted, insurance providers may apply their own policies or conditions. We always recommend checking directly with your insurer.
Who are the CTPA?
The CTPA (Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association) is the UK’s trade association for the cosmetics and personal care industry.
They work closely with regulators, scientists, manufacturers, and brands to help support product safety, regulatory
compliance, and best practice across the industry.
The CTPA also provides guidance to businesses regarding changes to UK cosmetic legislation and how these changes should be implemented in practice.
Understanding Industry Changes
As regulations evolve, reformulation is becoming a key focus across the professional nail sector. Manufacturers and brands are actively reviewing formulas to ensure future compliance while maintaining product performance and professional standards.
At The Edge, we will continue sharing relevant updates and guidance as more information becomes available, helping professionals stay informed throughout the transition period.
Supporting Professionals Through Industry Changes
As the nail industry evolves, many brands are beginning to reformulate products ahead of upcoming regulatory changes, meaning you may start to see a mix of existing and updated formulas, including TPO-free options.
At The Edge, we’re committed to keeping professionals informed with clear guidance and ongoing support throughout this transition.
If you have any questions about products, formulas, or upcoming changes, our Customer Services team is always here to help.
FAQs
TPO (Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide) is a photoinitiator—an ingredient that absorbs energy from a UV or LED lamp and triggers the chemical reaction that cures gel polish into a hard, durable film on the nail.
The European Union classified TPO as a CMR Category 1B substance (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or Toxic to Reproduction) under EU Regulation 2024/197, based on animal studies.
As of 1 September 2025, it is banned from all cosmetic products sold within the EU.
The EU ban is a precautionary measure; studies used high doses not reflective of how TPO behaves in cured gel polish on a nail plate.
The EU ban came into force on 1 September 2025.
From this date, products containing TPO could no longer be manufactured, sold, or used commercially within EU member states.
In Great Britain, products cannot be placed on the market for the first time after 15 August 2026, and the final deadline to sell through stock is 14 February 2027.
The ban does not currently apply in the US, Canada, or most other markets.
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety previously concluded TPO was safe for professional nail applications at concentrations up to 5%.
The ban is “hazard-based” (theoretical potential) rather than “risk-based” (actual likelihood of harm).
The key risk remains skin contact with uncured gel; proper technique is the most important protective measure.
The new formula uses TPO-L (Ethyl Trimethylbenzoyl Phenylphosphinate), a fully approved, EU-compliant alternative.
It was selected for its fast curing, low yellowing, and compatibility with existing colors.
Testing shows the same adhesion, cure speed, wear time, and removal process.
You may notice slight differences in viscosity or self-leveling, which typically resolve after a short adjustment period.
All professional products are now TPO-free and labeled “TPO-free” on packaging.
If Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide is not listed in the ingredient list, the product is TPO-free.
Yes, they are designed for compatibility with our existing system and standard professional UV/LED lamps.
Testing is recommended if mixing brands, especially with builders or bases.
HEMA is a bonding agent, not a photoinitiator, and remains permitted for professional use under current EU rules (though banned in consumer products).
Product HEMA status is clearly indicated on packaging.
1. Check ingredient lists for Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide.
2. Separate and label TPO-containing vs. TPO-free products.
3. Request SDS sheets to confirm formulas.
4. Test replacements before a full roll-out.
Yes, you may use existing stock purchased before deadlines until it runs out.
Dispose of them as chemical waste; do not pour down drains or use general waste bins.
Check with local councils for waste collection points or ask suppliers about take-back programs.
Available on request:
- SDS (Safety Data Sheets)
- Certificates of Conformity with EU Regulation 2024/197
- Written formula status confirmation
Keep it simple:
“Our gel formula has been updated to be TPO-free in line with new EU safety regulations. The service, wear time, and removal process are exactly the same - it’s simply a cleaner formulation.”